Mumbai Zoo: Virtual Tour Guide With Updated Details as of 2024

“Renowned as the ‘Byculla Zoo’, the Mumbai Zoo has undergone a remarkable transformation to become an internationally acclaimed destination. In the year 2023, this beloved attraction, officially known as the ‘Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan’, boasts a diverse collection of wild animals, birds, and aquatic species. Nestled within its grounds are over 3000 trees, including a variety of rare and medicinal plants. Originally established as a Botanical garden in Sewri, it was relocated to its current location in 1861 due to the conversion of the former site into a cemetery.”

Mumbai Zoo
Mumbai Zoo

Photo Courtesy: Mumbai Zoo YouTube Videos.

First, Let’s Watch The Latest Video of 2024

Today, the Mumbai Zoo is one of the top attractions in the city, attracting a large number of visitors every month. To give a complete tour of the zoo, I have gathered updated information including important details like Things to Know, the different Types of Animals, Birds, and Trees along with their Marathi names. Moreover, visitors can enjoy convenient facilities such as clean drinking water, restrooms, cafes, and ample parking areas. The zoo also boasts several heritage structures that enhance its appeal.

For those who are planning to visit, it is crucial to know the best time to explore the zoo, as well as the address, contact number, entry fees, nearest railway station, and directions to this remarkable destination.

What You Should Know before Coming to Mumbai Zoo

Synonyms: ‘Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan’ is the official name of Mumbai Zoo, but it is more commonly known as Mumbai Zoo. Additionally, it is recognized by numerous other names. Here are a few examples:

  1. Veermata Jijabai Udyan.
  2. VJB Udyan / VJBU.
  3. Jijamata Udyan.
  4. Byculla Zoo.
  5. Rani Baug (Hindi), Ranichi Bagh (Marathi Language).
  6. Victoria garden (Formerly).
  7. Queen’s Garden (Formerly).

Animals & Birds at a Glance

Get ready to embark on a wild adventure at our upcoming Lion exhibit. But that’s not all they have to offer. From the majestic Leopard to the delicate Butterfly, our zoo is home to a diverse range of animals. Marvel at the playful Otters, witness the power of the Crocodile and Gharial, and be in awe of the mighty Elephant and African Tiger. Don’t miss the cunning Hyena, the elusive Jackal, and the mysterious Wolf. Spot the elegant Sambar deer, the barking deer, the swamp deer, and the spotted deer. And of course, we have plenty of Bears and Hippos to captivate your attention.

If you’re a fan of reptiles, we have Tortoises and Turtles waiting to be discovered. And let’s not forget about our feathered friends Parrots, Macaws, Parakeets, Peacocks, and Toucans will dazzle you with their vibrant colors. For those who love aquatic birds, we have Herons, Spoonbills, Flamingos, Storks, and Pelicans gracefully gliding through the water.

As you explore our zoo, you’ll find informative boards near each section, providing fascinating information about the Birds, Animals, and Trees. Speaking of trees, we have a whopping 6,611 trees and an impressive 283 species of plants. Among them, 291 are rare species and 15 have medicinal properties.

But that’s not all, We have a total of 88 mammals across 13 different species, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. And when it comes to Birds, we boast an impressive 157 species spread across 19 varieties. Reptile enthusiasts will be delighted to know that we have 32 reptiles representing 7 different species.

So, get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at our incredible zoo. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of furry creatures, feathered friends, or the beauty of botanicals.

Food, Cafes, Drinking Water, Washrooms

Everything you need is right here. The washrooms are spotless and there are not one, but two delightful cafes waiting for you inside. You won’t go hungry either, as there are plenty of snacks to choose from. If you’re craving some local street food like Vada Pav, it might cost you around Rs. 30 to Rs. 40, a tad pricey but worth it for a special treat.

Don’t worry about staying hydrated either, as there are numerous drinking water facilities scattered throughout the zoo. While you explore the marvelous world of birds, animals, and trees, remember that you can’t bring regular Bisleri or similar-packaged water bottles. Instead, opt for a sturdy non-disposable plastic bottle. And for the little ones, snacks are allowed as long as they are properly packed in boxes. Enjoy your time at the zoo.

Best Time to Visit Mumbai Zoo

Start your day right by visiting the park in the early morning, around 10:00 a.m. This is the perfect time to avoid the afternoon lull when many animals take their naps. If you’re planning a visit during the year, winter (December to February) is the ideal season to enjoy the park’s beauty. Try to steer clear of weekends and public holidays, as they tend to get quite crowded.

However, if you happen to visit during the monsoon season, you’ll be greeted with pleasant weather. Just keep in mind that May is usually school vacation time and can get quite hot, with temperatures averaging around 33 degrees Celsius. For more information on park timings and other details, please refer to the information below.

Reaching and The Nearest Railway Station

Discover the enchanting Byculla (East Side) nestled along the Central Railway Route, and the bustling Mumbai Central Station (Main Junction) on the Western Railway Route. Delve into the fascinating world of this zoo, and let us guide you on how to reach it effortlessly. Whether you prefer the convenience of train travel, the freedom of the road, or the swiftness of air travel, we’ve got you covered. Read on to uncover the detailed instructions on reaching this captivating zoo.

Car, Bus & Bike Parking: Ample space is available; weekends are crowded. Paid parking costs Rs. 20..

Photography (Cameras Allowed): Yes. Mobile cameras are free. DSLRs, etc., charged Rs. 100 extra. You are allowed to take it inside the museum area too.

Historic Facts of this Place

In 2022, Mumbai Zoo celebrated its remarkable 160-year anniversary. Originally located in Sewri, the zoo was relocated in 1861 after the Sewri Botanical Garden was transformed into a cemetery. During the 1960s, a captivating open-air theater named the Anna Bhau Sathe Theatre was established within the zoo’s premises. Back then, stage shows and dance performances were the primary sources of entertainment since televisions were not yet prevalent.

The theater showcased Maharashtra’s vibrant folk dances such as Bharud, Koli dance, Lavani, and Tamasha, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of tablas and classical folk music. This unique blend of art, entertainment, and leisure provided a delightful experience for the public. With a seating capacity of 400 to 500 people, the theater became a popular destination for cultural enthusiasts.

However, in 1984, the theater had to be closed down. The lively performances proved to be too disruptive for the birds and animals residing within the zoo. Despite its closure, the memories of those captivating shows continue to linger, reminding us of a bygone era filled with cultural richness and entertainment.

From 1984 to 2015, the Zoo gained its fame due to its limited collection of Wild Animals and Birds. However, the overall satisfaction of the public was not up to par as the zoo area was poorly maintained, resulting in frequent deaths of the animals and birds.

Fortunately, in 2016, there was a significant increase in public awareness and media exposure. This led to the Mumbai Zoo Revamp project becoming the top priority for the BMC (The Municipal Corporation of Mumbai).

As a result, various improvements were made, including the addition of a 3D amphitheater, a parking area, a museum, restrooms, eateries, and most importantly, enhanced cleanliness and hygiene. The wild animals, especially the hippos, were delighted to receive regular fresh water supplies.

Furthermore, the Byculla Zoo saw an increase in the number of birds and reptiles. A total of 449 birds from 38 different species and 43 reptiles from 9 varied species were counted. This growth in numbers attracted numerous citizens, foreign tourists, and school students to the only zoo in Mumbai.

During the latest phase of the zoo renovation, an additional 7 acres of land adjacent to the garden area was acquired. This plot was previously owned by a private firm known as ‘Mafatlal Company’, as reported by local news channels and media outlets.

Now, let’s delve into the rich history of Mumbai Zoo. It’s high time to pay a visit to this incredible place and immerse yourself in an international standard experience. Explore the vast 53-acre land in the southern part of Mumbai, where you can witness a diverse range of animals, birds, flora, and fauna. Over the past few years, the zoo has introduced exciting new attractions such as penguin chicks, underwater crocodiles, and the mesmerizing Gharial viewing Gallery.

List of Trees inside Byculla Zoo

I have tried to add Marathi names of these trees for ease of reference for anyone required. Also have a look at the Medicinal garden & Tactile Garden.

  1. Indian Elm (Bawda)
  2. Baobab (Gorkha Chinch)
  3. Lac (Kusum)
  4. Banyan tree (Vat Vriksh)
  5. White Wood (Kajuput)
  6. Cannon Ball (Kailashpati)
  7. Pride of India (Taman)
  8. Elephant Apple (Karmad)
  9. Gum Gualacum (Dinka)
  10. Cocoa (Coco Jhaad)
  11. Sacred Barna (Vayvarna / Pavitra Barna)
  12. White Teak (Shivan / Pandra Saag)
  13. Candle Tree (Menabattiche Jhaad)
  14. Rain Tree (Pavsache Vriksh / Vilayati Shirish)
  15. Bonfire Tree (Kaushi)
  16. Badminton Ball (Chendu Phool)
  17. Tree Of Heaven (Urvashi)
  18. Rose Of Venezuela (Lal Chumbar)
  19. Krishna’s Buttercup (Krushna Vad)
  20. Indian Butter Tree (Moh)
  21. Majestic Heaven Lotus (Bhavya Svargiya Kamalace Jhaad)

Heritage Structures inside Zoo

Here are the names of the Heritage structures located inside Byculla Zoo. You can find the detailed locations of these structures in the Tour Section of this page.

  1. Clock Tower
  2. Bhau Daji Lad Museum (Near Entry Gate)
  3. Triumph Arch (Also called ‘Vijay Kaman‘)
  4. Kala Ghoda
  5. Conservatory
  6. Veermata Jijabai Sculpture
  7. Stony Grotto
  8. Band Stand
  9. Lady Frers’s temple

Let’s Go For a Virtual Tour

In the heart of the main entrance, you’ll find the stunning Clock Tower, standing tall between the adjacent Entry and Exit gates. To make your online tour a breeze, I’ll guide you through a step-by-step route and share the Marathi Names of all the animals residing in Byculla Zoo. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together.

As you step through the entrance of Mumbai Zoo, a fascinating sight awaits you – the magnificent ‘Bhau Daji Lad Museum‘, a heritage structure that immediately captures your attention. Moreover, just to the left of the museum, there is a spacious car parking area, conveniently located.

If you arrive in your own vehicle, there will be a parking fee of Rs. 20. You can park bikes, cars, buses, and other vehicles inside the zoo premises.

To make the most of your visit to the Zoo, it’s best to begin your tour as soon as it opens. This way, you can experience the tranquility of the early morning and avoid the larger crowds. As you enter through the main gate, you’ll immediately notice a remarkable Heritage structure known as the ‘Triumph Arch’ or ‘Vijay Kaman’.

If you turn left, you’ll come across a Conservatory. Keep going in that direction, and prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking sight of a wild elephant (Hatti). On the opposite side, you’ll find the majestic Lion’s Den, home to the King of the Jungle.

Just a bit further down the path, you’ll come across a friendly Wolf (Landga), and if you keep going, you’ll find a Bear (Aswal) not too far behind. Take a right turn and you’ll arrive at the Band Stand, a beautiful Heritage Structure that provides shade and everything else you need.

The Leopard section (Bibtya) is situated right in front of the Band Stand at Mumbai Zoo, with the Hyena (Taras) and the Jackal (Kolha) on either side..

USUALLY MISSED : Did you noticed the Japanese Garden inside Mumbai Zoo?, You can get a great view of the Leopard section by standing right behind you.

Make sure you don’t overlook the stunning Candle tree on your way to the renowned Sherkhan of the Jungle, Tigers (Bagh). In this zoo, you’ll find two Bengal Tigers named ‘Shakti‘ and ‘Karishma‘. The latest visitors were also delighted to see the adorable little cubs, a pair of them. They are all thriving and can be seen right in front of you through the glass enclosure.

Continue moving forward in a straight line, and you’ll come across a refreshing spot where you can find a cafe for refreshmant, snacks and drinking water. On the left side of this spot, you’ll also notice another remarkable architectural gem known as Lady Frere’s Temple.

This is Amazing, This Zoo has a total of 8 incredible animal sections. Right at the intersection of the Drinking Water and Temple, you’ll find ‘Café Wild’ where you can take a refreshing snack break. And don’t worry, there’s a clean restroom nearby too. Oh, and don’t miss the fascinating Badminton Ball Tree right next to the restroom.

As you continue on your path, you’ll encounter yet another magnificent creature, the Sambar Deer. But don’t stop there, because at the end of the road, you’ll find the mighty Hippo (Panghoda) eagerly awaiting your arrival. Take a moment to admire its grandeur before making a U-turn back.

Take a leisurely stroll back along the path, bidding farewell to the majestic Sambar. Then, make a left turn to witness the enchanting sight of a different herd of deer gracefully roaming within the vast green expanse known as Barking Deer (Bhekar). As you explore further, you’ll also come across the elegant Swamp Deer (Barshinga) and the beautiful Spotted Deer (Chittad / Harin) in close proximity.

Don’t forget to explore the magnificent Bonfire Tree on your left, continue your journey to discover the enchanting Tree of Heaven near the Swamp deer area, and make sure to admire the majestic Indian Butter Tree at the Spotted Deer section, right at the viewpoint of this vast open ground. Tree enthusiasts will be captivated by these remarkable specimens.

You are now at Rose Garden circle. Relax, Take a sneak peek of those Rose and move ahead to find the most awaiting and in news section of Byculla Zoo since it came The Penguin Section. The view of ‘Humboldt Penguins’ is not to be missed and Children go crazy entering this cold section to watch OREO (One of the Penguin). ₹50 Extra as entry fee for same. At one of the sides of Rose Garden circle are 2 important trees ‘Rose of Venezuela’ and ‘Krishna’s Buttercup’.

Welcome to the enchanting Rose Garden circle. Take a moment to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of these exquisite roses. As you continue your journey, get ready to discover the highly anticipated and buzzworthy section of Byculla Zoo – The Penguin Section.

Don’t miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the adorable Humboldt Penguins. Children are absolutely thrilled to enter this chilly zone and meet OREO, one of the beloved penguins. Previously there was an additional entry fee of ₹50 for this extraordinary experience, Not the ENTRY IS FREE. On one side of the Rose Garden circle, you’ll find two significant trees – the majestic Rose of Venezuela and the vibrant Krishna’s Buttercup. Let the wonders of nature surround you as you explore this captivating location.

In addition to that, you’ll find a remarkable 3D Auditorium, a captivating Amphitheatre, and an additional Cafeteria conveniently located next to the Penguin section.

In the heart of this zoo lies a captivating play area called the Children Park, nestled between the enchanting Rose garden and the lively Penguin Section. As you explore further, you’ll come across the Mini Forest Trail of this Zoo, a delightful pathway that immerses you in nature’s embrace. And don’t forget to marvel at the majestic beauty of the unmissable tree known as the Majestic Heaven Lotus.

As you make your way back to the junction, you’ll come across a fascinating heritage structure known as the ‘Veermata Jijabai Sculpture‘. On your left, there are three remarkable sections waiting to be explored. The first is the Birds Paradise (Pakshyanchi Nandanvan), where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of various bird species.

Next, you’ll find the Turtle Section (Kasav), where these gentle creatures reside. And finally, there’s the enchanting Butterfly Garden (Phulpakhru Udyan), a delightful spot to get closer to nature and admire these graceful creatures. It’s a charming section that will surely captivate your heart.

Get ready for the next exciting stop on your Zoo tour. We’re heading to the incredible Crocodile (Alligators / Magar) & Gharials Section, a recent addition to the Animal section of Mumbai Zoo. After exploring the fascinating world of crocodiles, we’ll make our way to the Otter (PanManjar) area. And finally, we’ll wrap up our adventure near the Exit gate with the captivating Aqua Birds section. Get ready to be amazed.

Watch the latest video i uploaded on this page upon visiting this Zoo and Crocodile section in January 2024.

But wait, there’s more waiting to be discovered just beyond the heritage gate. A breathtaking variety of trees eagerly anticipate your arrival. Tucked away behind the iconic Kala Ghoda Statue and Triumphal Arch Gate, lies a remarkable assortment of trees as mentioned in this article.

Among them stand the majestic Banyan Tree, the regal Pride of India Tree, the sacred Barna Tree, the enchanting Lac Tree, the graceful Indian Elm, the extraordinary Baobab Tree, the elegant White Wood Tree, the fascinating Canon Ball Tree, the delightful Elephant Apple Tree, the exquisite White Teak Tree, the enticing Cocoa Tree, and the captivating Gum Gualacum Tree. Prepare yourself to be fully immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature’s wonders.

After concluding the tour, you will find washrooms, an information area, and a ticket counter area just before reaching the main exit gate. Once you exit the gate, head towards the left to reach CSMT (South of Mumbai), while turning right will lead you to Dadar (North of Mumbai).

Byculla Zoo Contact Number, Address & Timings

Official Address
Mumbai/Byculla Zoo

Lalbaug Flyover,, Near Byculla Railway Station (East), Byculla (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra., Pin Code 400027.
Timings Morning 10.00 Am to 5.00 Pm (Closed On Wednesday & Public Holidays).




Entrance: With ticket.
Currency accepted: Indian Rupees.
Payment accepted: Cash, Credit Card.
Online Ticket Booking Website :.

Mumbai Zoo Social Accounts

Ticket Booking & Entry Fee (Online & Office)

The Mumbai Zoo is a popular destination on weekends and public holidays, drawing large crowds of visitors. If you plan to visit during these busy times, be prepared for long lines that can take up to thirty minutes just to get entry tickets. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays are a better option as they are less crowded.

Exciting news for all penguin lovers. The Humboldt Penguins Section, which used to charge an additional Rs.50 per person, now offers free entry. So, you can enjoy the delightful company of these adorable creatures without any extra cost.

When it comes to capturing memories, you’ll be glad to know that mobile cameras are allowed inside the zoo without any charges. However, for other types of cameras, there is an additional fee of ₹100. So, make sure to bring your phone along to capture all the wonderful moments at the Mumbai Zoo.

Please complete the online form to provide us with the visitor totals. To make an online booking, They kindly ask for the date of your visit, your name, mobile number, and email ID. For: Online Ticket Booking. At the entrance gate, a convenient ticket vending machine awaits those who have made their ticket reservations online.

Discover the convenience of booking your entry fees online or simply purchase them on the spot. They offer different rates for adults, kids, and senior citizens. Additionally, we have special ticket prices for families, foreign tourists, and school groups. Check out the detailed rates below and get ready for an amazing experience:

Entry Age and Charges Related

Adults Age: 12 to 59 Years
Children Age: 3 to 12 Years Below age 3, Entry Free.
Senior Citizen Age: Above 60 years, Entry Free.
Divyang (Physically Challenged): Entry Free. Valid Disability Certificate Required.

Individual Booking and Charges

  • Adult Ticket Charges are ₹50
  • Children Ticket Charges ₹25. Entry free for kids age 3 and below.
  • Senior Citizen, Entry free.
  • Divyang (Physically Challenged), Entry free.

Family Booking and Charges

:

  • 2 Adult & 2 Children, Ticket Charges are ₹100
  • 2 Adult & 1 Children, Ticket Charges are ₹100
  • Additional Adult: ₹50.
  • Additional Children ₹25.
  • Senior Citizen (Age above 60 years), Entry free.
  • Divyang (Physically Challenged), Entry free.

BMC School Group Entry Fees

While completing the online form for School group entry, it may seem perplexing that the cost is displayed as ₹0 for every age. However, the school authority is required to input the maximum total number of students (Children) and teachers, etc. (Adults) within the form (with a maximum limit of 10 counts as indicated on the booking website).

Additionally, the school authority must also submit a Visiting request form on the school’s letterhead, providing essential details such as the School name, Date of Visit, School UDIS number, Person Name, Email ID, and Mobile Number.

Private School Group Entry Fees

The online form can be a bit confusing for the school authority as they need to input the maximum number of students (Children) and teachers, etc. (Adults). They are allowed a maximum of 10 counts as seen on the booking website.

  • Adult Entry Fee ₹50
  • Students (Age 3 to 12 years) Entry Fee ₹15.
  • Students (Age 12 years & Above) Entry Fee ₹25.
  • Senior Citizen, Entry free.
  • Divyang (Physically Challenged), Entry free.

Foreign Nationals (Tourists) Charges

:

  • Adult, ₹400
  • Children, ₹200

Reaching Mumbai Zoo

By Train

 The closest railway station to reach Byculla Zoo is none other than Byculla Railway Station, which is conveniently located on the Central Railway Route of the Mumbai Railway Network. Reference: Mumbai Station Names, Railway Map, Station Codes.

If you’re coming to Mumbai from outside the city and your destination is Mumbai Central Railway Station or any station along the Western Railway Route, you’ll be glad to know that the zoo is just 2.7 kilometers away from Mumbai Central Station. It’s a short taxi ride that takes only 15 minutes to reach directly. Alternatively, you can also hop on one of the convenient BEST buses that operate in and around Mumbai.

For more information on bus routes to the zoo, you can visit this link: [Mumbai Zoo BEST Buses].

By Road

Maps have become indispensable companions when it comes to navigating our way to our desired destinations. However, if you’re planning to visit Mumbai zoo by road from outside the city, here are some local tips that might come in handy:

Both the Western Express Highway and the Eastern Express Highway serve as routes to reach the zoo. The Eastern Express Highway is known for being less congested and can save you some precious time. On the other hand, the Western Express Highway, which connects various locations within South Mumbai, offers a picturesque view of the city. So, depending on your preferences, you can choose the highway that suits you best.

By Air

The Zoo is located approximately 20 Km away from Mumbai International Airport, and under normal to low traffic conditions, it usually takes around an hour to reach there.

Some old Photos Of Byculla Zoo

Zoo Museum
Zoo Museum
Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus
Spotted Deer in Group
Spotted Deer in Group
Mumbai Zoo Inside View
Mumbai Zoo Inside View
Zoo Birds
Zoo Birds
Huge Black Bear
Huge Black Bear
Hippos at Mumbai Zoo
Hippos at Mumbai Zoo

More Places Near and Around Mumbai Zoo



See More in    Attractions BMC MCGM Government Related Gardens Parks Picnic Spots Travel Guide

Greetings, I am Deven, the founder of Mumbai77. With immense passion, I have dedicated my full-time efforts to continuously learn and update important information about Mumbai city. Currently, I am a full-time blogger residing in Mumbai. Since its establishment on July 7, 2007, Mumbai77 has attracted millions of pageviews. Our website aims to provide valuable information, including my personal reviews and experiences, to assist individuals worldwide in their search for updated information about Mumbai city.

7 Replies to “Mumbai Zoo: Virtual Tour Guide With Updated Details as of 2024

  1. hello, I just wanted to asked about that are there any jobs/vacancies in Jijamata udyan/The Mumbai Zoo. It will be very helpful if anyone know or recommend. Thank you!

  2. Website is fine. Please tell us whom can we contact to catch 3-4 monkeys in Malabar Hill who are creating a big nuisance for residents .

    1. Hello Prakash,

      I believe you should contact BMC fire department / Snake rescue department as they take care of Animal related Menace. If i am wrong, they will at least help you with exact contact.

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